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Over the last few days a prototype timber frame has been temporarily installed at the site to give volunteers and tenants a feel for the likely job ahead.

The timber - a mix of larch and Douglas fir - has been provided by a family-owned sawmill in the Scottish borders.

Self builder Sharon Eastwood works on the house (Image: Peter Harbour)

Sharon Eastwood, who has been a Giroscope tenant for 24 years, is among those hoping to move in. She said: "It's been great to be involved in putting the frame together. Pulling it into place by hand without using any equipment was a tremendous feeling.

"All my kids have grown up and flown the nest so it's time to downsize. What better way to do that that actually help build my new home?

"I work as a gardener for Giroscope so I'm used to working outdoors in all weathers. I'm really looking forward to getting stuck in."

The timber frame is being built on land behind Giroscope headquarters (Image: Peter Harbour)

Caroline Gore-Booth, project manager at the charity, said the self-build scheme in Coltman Street could be the first of many.

"We have been talking about doing something like this for years," she said. "Hopefully, if we can get through planing we are looking to start on site next spring.

"The homes will be built by volunteers, future tenants and disadvantaged people who we work with on various training schemes.

"The idea of having the frame done as a prototype was give people some experience with some of the construction techniques involved and the tools they are likely to be using.

"It has also provided a bit of momentum by giving people the opportunity to actually see something going up and providing some engagement by getting involved in piecing it all together."